A computer network is a group of two or more computers connected by a communication system, so that they can share data, resources and peripherals. While there are many ways to create a network, wireless networking has become standard in recent years, at home and in the office. In fact, the latter do not require a direct or physical connection between computers and devices on the network itself. You can also use an "ad-hoc" network to create a temporary link between two computers. This article contains detailed information on how to network multiple systems.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Set Up a Wireless Network for a Home or Small Business
Step 1. Get the necessary to create a network
You need an internet connection and a modem, as well as a wireless router.
- Obtain the router's default username (SSID) and password, as well as the web address of the device configuration page before creating the network. You can usually find this information in the router manual inside the box.
- Make sure that all computers and devices you want to connect to the network have a wireless network adapter installed. Many computers today come with this component. Read the manuals or consult customer support to find out if your devices have it.
Step 2. If you have a cable modem, plug it into the wall outlet
These devices connect to a short coaxial cable that comes out of the wall. You must have a contract with a local cable internet service provider.
Step 3. If you have an ADSL or fiber modem, plug it into the phone jack
These devices connect to the telephone socket with a normal cable, usually included in the package at the time of purchase. You have to sign a contract with a local internet service provider.
Step 4. Connect the wireless router to the modem
Insert one side of the network cable (usually Ethernet) included in the router package into the modem and the other into the first free port, from left to right, on the back of the router. The first door is usually a different color than the others.
Plug the other side of the cable into the modem's Ethernet port
Step 5. Connect the host computer to the wireless router
Insert one side of a USB network cable or an Ethernet cable into the computer's network adapter and the other into the first free port on the router.
Connect the modem to power, then do the same for the router. Wait a few moments for the devices to start up
Step 6. Configure the wireless modem
Turn on your computer and log into your desktop.
- Open your web browser, type the router's URL or IP address in the address bar and press Enter to open the device configuration page. The operation required varies by router, however the differences are not noticeable in most cases.
- Follow the setup instructions provided in the router manual. While this is almost entirely automatic, you should change the network name or SSID, password, and security settings.
- Name your network and enter it in the SSID field, which you can usually find in the "Advanced Settings" section of the router configuration page.
- Create an easy-to-remember password for the network. Enter it in the "Security Key" or "Network Password" field, which is usually found again in the "Advanced Settings" section of the router configuration page.
- Select a security protocol for the network. The options are usually "none", "WPA" or "WPA 2". WPA 2 is the recommended choice because it offers a more complex and therefore more secure encryption system than WPA. Save your settings when asked. You should now see the wireless network appear in the list of available ones on the host computer.
Step 7. Connect other computers or devices to the new network by selecting "Connect to" from the Start menu, then selecting the newly created network from the list of those available in the "Connect to a network" window
Enter the network name and password you chose in the previous steps. You have finished creating the network.
Method 2 of 4: Set up an Ad-hoc Network between Two PCs
Step 1. Open your computer's Start menu and select "Connect to" from the right column
The Connection window will open.
Step 2. Select the "Connect to a network" item from the Connection window
Step 3. Select "Set up a connection or network", then select "Set up an ad hoc (computer to computer) network to open the corresponding window
Step 4. Check the information provided in the "Set up an ad hoc network" window, then click "Next" to continue
Step 5. Enter a name for the ad-hoc network in the Network name field
Step 6. Select a security type, enter a password in the "Security key" field and click "Next" to complete the operation
You will receive a notification when the configuration is complete.
Step 7. Click the "Close" button to exit the dialog box
You have finished creating the network and other devices will be able to connect to it with the password you have chosen.
Method 3 of 4: Set up an Ad-Hoc Network between Two Mac Computers
Step 1. Open the AirPort application
Click the WiFi icon located in the upper right corner of the menu bar and select "Create Network" from the drop-down menu to open the app you are interested in.
Step 2. Check the "Show AirPort status in menu bar" box, located in the Airport window
Step 3. Enter a name for the network in the "Network Name" field and select the option for the default channel (11)
Step 4. Check the "Require password" box and enter an access key consisting of 10 hexadecimal numbers in the "Network key" field
Step 5. Click "Continue" to exit Airport
You have created the ad-hoc network. Other devices can connect using a USB, WiFi or Ethernet connection.
Method 4 of 4: Set Up a Network Between Mac Computers
Step 1. Make sure you have everything you need
To create a network between MAC computers, you need a WiFI Airport network hub or switch. AirPort is a network device that you can buy online or at electronics or computer stores.
Step 2. Launch the Airport Installation CD that was included with the device at the time of purchase
Follow the wizard instructions to complete the program installation.
- Click the WiFi icon located in the upper right corner of the menu bar and select "AirPort On" from the drop-down menu. The AirPort program will attempt to automatically locate the Hub. If successful, the Hub will be visible in the drop-down menu, just below the button to activate AirPort.
- Identify the AirPort hub from the list of available network devices. Each hub has a unique identification number (MAC-ID), printed on the bottom of the device. Confirm that yours is listed in the Wi-Fi drop-down menu in the desktop menu bar.
- Check the box next to the Airport MAC-ID in the drop-down menu to activate the device. The "AirPort" window will open on the desktop.
- Press "Continue" to configure the computer network with "Assisted Mode".
Step 3. Enter the network name in the "Wireless Network Name" field
Give the AirPort hub a name called "Base Station" in the "Base Station Name" field, then click "Continue".
Step 4. Enter the network password in the "Security key" field
Step 5. Select the correct option for the country and radio mode, then click "Continue"
Step 6. Select a network security level and click "Continue"
Choose the correct internet connection method and click "Continue" again to complete the setup operation. The other computers and devices can now connect to the network with the name and password you created in the previous steps.
